Secretary Byrd Designates Main Street Crestview Association as Florida Main Street Program of the Month

Secretary Byrd Designates Main Street Crestview Association as Florida Main Street Program of the Month

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. -

Today, Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced that the Main Street Crestview Association, located in Okaloosa County, has been designated the January 2026 Florida Main Street Program of the Month.

"This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication of the Main Street Crestview Association to preserving their historic community," said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. "Their efforts to revitalize Downtown Crestview, support small businesses, and foster welcoming spaces demonstrate the true spirit of Florida Main Streets. I commend their leadership and the lasting impact they continue to make in Northwest Florida."

The settlement of Crestview dates back to the 1880s when it was established along the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad, later known as the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. Crestview's strategic location made it a natural gathering point for agricultural trade, particularly peanuts, cotton, and lumber. Its name comes from its location on a high point, offering a "crest view" of the surrounding area. Early settlers were drawn by the area's fertile land and timber, and by the transportation opportunities the railroad provided. Incorporated in 1916, Crestview quickly became a key trade and travel center for northern Okaloosa County, laying the foundation for the thriving community it is today. Crestview was named the county seat in 1917, shortly after the county was established, and it has held that status ever since.

Photographs provided by Kram Kran Photo

In the 1930s, local businessman James E. Plew helped stimulate the Okaloosa County economy by supporting military development. He leased land for an airport in 1933, and donated 1,460 acres in 1934 for a bombing and gunnery base. This led to the establishment of the Valparaiso Bombing and Gunnery Base in 1935, later renamed Eglin Field in 1937, in honor of Lt. Col. Frederick I. Eglin. This field is the forerunner to what is now known as Eglin Air Force Base.

Today, Crestview has grown from its origins as a railroad town into a growing community in Northwest Florida. Often referred to as the "Hub City," it plays a central role in commerce and daily life in Okaloosa County. As the city expands with new businesses and neighborhoods, it continues to maintain its historic downtown and a strong sense of local identity.

The Main Street Crestview Association (MSCA) works to support the revitalization and preservation of downtown Crestview's core. As part of Florida's Main Street Program, the organization focuses on community involvement, economic development, and maintaining the area's historic character. Since 1997, when MSCA joined the Main Street Program, they have generated $16,282,408 in public and private investments. The community has seen an increase of 163 net new businesses that have created 486 net new jobs, and over 27,358 volunteer hours have been recorded.

MSCA organizes several annual events, including the Triple B Festival, a barbecue event in March. Other notable events include the Fall Festival in October, the Holiday Market in November, and the Crestview Christmas Parade in December. MSCA also collaborates with the City of Crestview on additional events in the downtown district which help to attract visitors and support local businesses.

Over the past year, MSCA has been working on improving accessibility, specifically in the downtown pocket playground by installing a handicap accessible swing set with ADA-compliant safety flooring. This project aims to create a more inclusive play space for all children.

For more information on Main Street Crestview Association, visit historicdowntowncrestview.org.

To learn more about the Florida Main Street program, visit Florida Main Street or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

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About Florida Main Street

Florida Main Street is a program administered by the Division of Historical Resources under the Florida Department of State, which currently oversees 54 communities throughout the state. By implementing the National Main Street Center's Four-Point Approach, Florida Main Street encourages economic development within the context of historic preservation through the revitalization of Florida's downtowns - the community's heart and soul.